Pharrell Williams Signs to Columbia for New Solo Album

Neptunes hit-maker Pharrell Williams has had an absolutely massive 2013, roping in a heap of Grammy nominations thanks to his involvement in two of the year's most ubiquitous singles: Daft Punk's "Get Lucky" and Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines." Now, the multitalented songwriter and producer has capped off his triumphant year by signing a deal with Columbia Records for a new album.

As a press release reveals, Williams is planning to release a solo album in early 2014. This will feature his recent single "Happy," which appeared on the Despicable Me 2 soundtrack and recently got a 24-hour music video.

"When we excitedly partnered with Pharrell in January of this year, we felt it was his time again," Columbia Records boss Rob Stringer said in a statement. "Since then, 'Blurred Lines' and 'Get Lucky' have defined pop music in 2013, and now we are preparing to launch Pharrell as a global solo superstar in 2014. 'Happy' is just the beginning."

The details of Williams's impending solo album have yet to be revealed. It will be the follow-up to the multi-instrumentalist's 2006 album In My Mind.